Frequently Asked Questions

I am interested in purchasing a handgun, what hanguns are available in CA?

• Ca has specific handguns and revolvers that legal to purchase new and maintains a list of what is approved for sale. Handguns Certified for Sale

Where can I see the new handguns that have been added to the CA roster?

• Recently Added Handgun Models

What is required to purchase a firearm?

• CA Real ID
• Current street address on your ID
• Proof of Residency
• Firearms Safety Certificate or Exemption

How do I know if I have the Real ID, and if I dont, what do I need to provide?

• Real ID vs Federal Limits ID

Where can I get my FSC?

• We offer the FSC at the time of a firearm purchase.

Do I need to take the FSC test if I’m not ready to buy a firearm?

• No, you only need to have a valid FSC at the time you are purchasing a firearm.

Are there exemptions from the FSC test?

Yes there are exemptions.

• Special Weapons Permit Holder
• Operation of Law Representative
• Handgun being returned to the owner
• FFL collector with COE (curio and relic handguns only)
• Military – Active Duty
• Military – Reserve
• Military – Honorably Retired
• Peace Officer – California – Active
• Peace Officer – Federal – Active
• Peace Officer – California – Honorably Retired
• Peace Officer – California – Reserve
• Peace Officer – Federal – Honorably Retired
• Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) Permit Holder
• P.O.S.T. 832 PC (Firearms) Training
• Particular and Limited Authority Peace Officers
• Law Enforcement Service Gun to Family Member
• Valid Hunting License (long guns only)

Is there a study guide for the FSC test?

• Firearm Safety Certificate – Study Guide

How long is the FSC valid for?

• Your FSC is good for 5 years from the date it was originally issued.

What can I use as a Proof of Residency?

Examples of acceptable proof of residency:

• Carry Concealed Weapon (CCW) Permit.
• Current DMV Disabled Placard.
• Current DMV Registrations.
• Electricity, gas, cable bill with purchaser’s name on it from within the last 3 months.(Not shutoff notices)
• Resident Hunting License issued by Department of Fish and Wildlife
• Fishing License issued by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Examples of documents that are NOT acceptable proof of residency:

• Active Duty Military Spouse ID.
• Bank Statement.
• Credit card bill.
• Cell Phone bill.
• Registration Renewal Notices.
• Vehicle Titles (pink slip).
• Pay Stub.
• Voter Registration.

Note: Proof of residency must be valid at the time of delivery.

I’ve heard there is a background to purchase ammo. What is required?

• Ammo purchase requirements

Can I buy firearms if I am under 21?

• If you are 18-20 years old you would need a valid CA hunting license to purchase certain firearms.

Once I have a valid hunting license, what firearms can I purchase?

• With a valid CA hunting license you will be able to purchase shotguns, lever action rifles, rimfire rifles( i.e 22LR) and bolt action rifles. 

Where can I get a CA hunting license?

• You will first need to complete your CA Hunter Safety Course which can be completed online.

Once I have completed the Hunter Safety Course, what do I need to do in order to get my hunting license?

• After passing the online portion of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Hunting education course, you will need to locate and sign up for the required Follow-Up Class. All students are required to obtain a FREE Pre-registration Hunter Education Document prior to registering for the Follow-Up Class.

I am interested in getting my concealed carry license(CCW)and I live in Fresno County,what is required?

• Own a concealable handgun.
• Take the ccw class  and receive your certificate of completion. 

• Fill out the Sheriff’s CCW permit application, upload your ccw certificate and pay the initial fee. ($208 for new permits and $77 to renew a permit, plus any applicable fees.)

• Pass the initial background check.

• Have your interview and get Live Scanned for DOJ, which will be completed at the Sheriff’s Office when you are interviewed.

Where can I take my CCW Training Class?

California Online CCW

Take your initial or renewal course online at your own pace.

Use Promo Code: M.VANDYKE-10 to save $10 on your course